01.05.2011 Liguria, cultural highlights in May

Liguria in May is at its most beautiful. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere of pre-season at summer temperatures; ideal conditions for paying a visit to the numerous cultural events, no matter whether it is a romantic village festival with Italian delicacies or the famous film festivals in Cannes. The shimmering outfits of celebrities stand out and complement the blossoming landscape; the BlumenRiviera, one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe, is unmissable in May as it explodes into a sea of flowers.

Civezza – „Circo Paese“

From May 1st the "Circo Paese" in Civezza mesmerizes both young and the old. This village, located in the hinterland of Imperia, turns itself into a circus during this festival. Artistes march through the typically narrow lanes of this medieval village. Magicians, jugglers and clowns fill the crowd with celebratory enthusiasm and complete a fun-loving event.

Genua – „Festival Nuova Cinema Europa“

The European Nuova Cinema Festival (01-05-11 till 05-05-11) woos many with its free entrance. New and interesting artists from all over Europe meet at one of the most popular film festivals in Italy. Many young and independent productions are shown.

Genoa la Superba ("The proud one") also offers other highlights. It is an imposing and dynamic town with a quite special flair! Famous for its numerous museums, theatres, the Aperitivo, and a popular stronghold for shopping enthusiasts. These shoppers can enjoy the advantages of the pre-season and move through the shops in peace before the great storm of visitors descends on the town during summer.

Cannes – The International Film Festivals in Cannes

To see and to be seen - for many the most important thing at this most famous of film festivals in Cannes from the 11th to the 22nd May 2011. International stars and promising newcomers rub shoulders at one of the most important events of the film industry. The opening ceremony is particularly spectacular, when the leading lights of the film industry strut onto the red carpet amidst a dazzling photoshoot.

Camogli – „Festival di pesce di San Fortunato“

Far away from the world of glitter and glamour, gourmets get their just desserts the fishing village of Camogli. The "Festival di pesce di San Fortunato" takes place in the port of Camogli, from 14-05-2011 to 15-05-2011. The natives celebrate a colorful fish festival together with several visitors. The delicious, freshly caught fish is deep fried in front of the crowd and then distributed. This traditional hustle and bustle is crowned with a fireworks display at the port.

Levanto - „ Mangialonga Passeggiata gastronomica“

The "Mangialonga Passeggiata gastronomica" is a real secret tip for all connoisseurs who have fallen prey to Liguria's culinary delicacies. The Mangialonga is a culinary walk through the Levanto valley, during which you stop in the villages to enjoy specialties produced from regional products traditionally prepared. Apart from the fine cuisine, you can also enjoy musical "tidbits", since the walk is accompanied by an entertaining musical programme. During the walk you can visit old mills, restored oil presses and private wine cellars, whose owners receive hikers with a freshly prepared snack of sausage and cheese.

Hanbury – Hanbury Garden

The fantastic Hanbury gardens, on the other hand, are a feast for the eyes. Those looking for a quiet place will find relaxation here in May. The Hanbury garden is located in the village of Ventimiglia, near the French border. The garden is in full blossom in the spring and the unusual plants enchant the visitors with their colorful splendor.

Monaco – Grand Prix Montecarlo

The famous Formula 1 race runs through the entire town centre of Monaco. The races take place on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 26-05-11 to 29-05-11. Whoever wishes to can see how the entire town is turned into a racetrack and is welcome to be there during the reconstruction works a weekend before the great race.

Turin – Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile di Torino

Lastly, some more good news for all car fans: the automobile museum in Turin is open once again and now shines resplendently. Almost 33 million Euros were invested in its restoration and expansion